10 Everyday Objects That Might Be Obsolete in 5 Years
Technology and changing habits are rapidly making certain everyday items irrelevant, and in just a few years, some may disappear entirely.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
Many once-essential items at home and business are in danger of being extinct as innovation continues to change our society. More ecological, digital, or efficient substitutes are taking the place of these products. These 10 commonplace items, which range from paper-based goods to wired peripherals, might become outdated within the next five years.
1. Physical Credit Cards
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With mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay gaining traction, traditional plastic cards are becoming unnecessary. Digital payment methods offer convenience, security, and faster transactions. Many businesses are already transitioning to contactless-only payments.
2. Cable TV Boxes
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Streaming services have revolutionized how we consume entertainment, leaving cable TV struggling to keep up. With smart TVs and internet-based platforms providing on-demand content, clunky cable boxes are fading into irrelevance.
3. Printed Receipts
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Retailers and restaurants are shifting toward digital receipts sent via email or text. They’re not only more convenient but also eco-friendly, eliminating paper waste.
4. Traditional Alarm Clocks
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Most people now rely on their smartphones for alarms, timers, and reminders. Smart home assistants like Alexa and Google Nest can also wake you with music or a customized morning routine.
5. USB Flash Drives
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Cloud storage services such as Google Drive and Dropbox offer unlimited access to files from any device. They eliminate the risk of losing tiny USB sticks and provide better security.
6. Keys and Locks
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Smart locks and biometric security systems are replacing traditional keys. Many homes, offices, and even cars now use keyless entry options, such as fingerprint scanning or mobile access.
7. Landline Phones
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Cell phones have already made home landlines nearly obsolete, but some people still hold onto them. As mobile plans become more affordable and reliable, the need for a separate home phone is vanishing.
8. Standalone GPS Devices
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Smartphones with built-in navigation apps, such as Google Maps and Waze, have replaced dedicated GPS units. These apps provide real-time traffic updates, rerouting options, and voice-guided directions.
9. Physical Media (DVDs, CDs, Blu-rays)
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Streaming services have pushed physical media to the sidelines, making DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays less relevant. With platforms like Spotify, Netflix, and Disney+, people no longer need to buy or store discs.
10. Checkbooks
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Digital banking and mobile payment apps have made paper checks nearly obsolete. Services like Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal allow instant, paper-free transactions.